Trying to make since of things....

Hi everyone,

I was wondering if any of you guys with RA experience numbness or "tingly pins and needles" sensations, I get these primarily in my legs feet and hands. We are working to figure out what is wrong with me and so far my Primary care doctor has been leaning towards fibromyalgia. I found out a couple of weeks ago that my brother was diagnosed with RA and so I started reading about it. It would explain some but not all of my symptoms. I see a rheumatologist on Monday. They haven't run the blood tests to look for RA yet. They were originally looking for MS, but all of my MRI and neurological exams came back normal. They did notice that I had elevated ANA but they said it really had nothing to do with my condition. I have been in constant pain that ranges from a 5 to a 9 since September of 06. My joints hurt and pop (especially my wrists and fingers) I wake up every morning feeling like I have been beat up in my sleep with a blunt object.

Thanks,

Stephanie

Stephanie,
The tingling and numbness could be caused by Peripheral Neuropathy (PN). There are tests that measure nerve conductivity to determine if that's what it is and there are meds, like Neurontin, Lyrica, trammadol that can help with it. When you see the Doc next, ask him about this possibility and also ask to have your Folic Acis tested. Deficiencies of Folic Acid and Vitamin B, especially B12, can result in PN. Whether you can identify a cause or not, there is relief to be had.

I hope you find some answers soon.